Prefabricated multi-module storefront system

ABSTRACT

A multi-module adjustable storefront system is provided. The multi-module adjustable storefront system includes an entrance meta-module that is adjustable to conform to different heights and lengths of an entrance section of a building structure. The entrance meta-module includes column modules that are adjustable to accommodate different heights. The entrance meta-module further includes top cap and main portion modules that may have additional modules added to adjust the entrance meta-module to different lengths of an entrance section of a building structure. In addition, the entrance meta-module may further include wall top cap portion modules which may have modules added to it to accommodate different length walls of a building structure. In addition an end-wall meta-module is provided for placement on the outside surface of a building structure wall. The end-wall meta-module includes a top cap module, base module, and partial column module. The top cap module and base module are adjustable by insertion of middle portions in order to adjust the length of the end-wall meta-module to accommodate different length walls. All of these modules are attachable to an outside surface of a building structure.

BACKGROUND OF THE INVENTION

1. Technical Field

The present invention is directed to a multi-module storefront system. More specifically, the present invention is directed to a system having a plurality of modules that are prefabricated for attachment to an existing building structure such that a facade of the building structure is modified to provide a different aesthetic quality for the building structure.

2. Description of Related Art

The aesthetic qualities of storefronts are an important aspect to the commercial viability of today's businesses. It is important to have an attractive facade that will attract potential customer's attention and provide them with an impression that it would be desirable to patronize the business. Moreover, the storefront may often be an indication of the identity of the business in terms of its shape, color scheme, arrangement, and the like.

In today's economy it is not uncommon to find business moving from one location to another frequently or having new branches of the business, i.e. new store locations, established in existing buildings. With the advent of the franchise business entity, the need to be able to provide a consistent storefront at various locations has become more important. That is, the principle value of a franchise is the goodwill that the franchise has established with consumers. The main way that a new franchise location indicates its affiliation to potential customers and thus, is able to make use of the goodwill established by the franchise, is the use of a storefront that is recognizable by the potential customer as being associated with the franchise.

Currently, storefronts are integrated with the building structure. That is, when a new franchise location is to be opened, typically a building structure must be constructed with the storefront elements integrated into the construction of the building structure. Alternatively, if a building structure already exists at the particular location, those portions of the building structure where storefront elements are to be placed, must be partially demolished and rebuilt with the integrated storefront elements being constructed therein.

Moreover, if an existing franchise location wishes to update its facade, the location must typically be shutdown for a fairly long time to perform the necessary demolition and re-construction to make the changes to the storefront. This results in a monetary loss for the franchise location and is a deterrent to franchise owners to update their storefronts.

Thus, with existing approaches to the construction of storefronts, much time, labor and expense must be incurred to provide an aesthetically appealing storefront that connotes the goodwill of the franchisor. Moreover, since the storefront is integrated into the building structure, construction of the storefront and removal of the storefront is a labor-intensive endeavor which requires demolition of at least a portion of the existing building structure and reconstruction.

Therefore it would be beneficial to have an improved storefront system that alleviates the problems with the current state of the art. Moreover, it would be beneficial to have a storefront system in which portions of the storefront may be prefabricated and attached to an existing building structure without requiring integration of the prefabricated storefront portions into the structure of the building. Furthermore, it would be beneficial to have a storefront system that is adjustable to different existing building structures without requiring demolition and reconstruction of the building structure.

SUMMARY OF THE INVENTION

The present invention provides a multi-module adjustable storefront system. The multi-module adjustable storefront system includes an entrance meta-module that is adjustable to conform to different heights and lengths of an entrance section of a building structure. The entrance meta-module includes column modules that are adjustable to accommodate different heights. The entrance meta-module further includes top cap and main portion modules that may have additional modules added to adjust the entrance meta-module to different lengths of an entrance section of a building structure. In addition, the entrance meta-module may further include wall top cap portion modules which may have modules added to it to accommodate different length walls of a building structure.

In addition to the entrance meta-module, the present invention further provides an end-wall meta-module for placement on the outside surface of a building structure wall. This end-wall meta-module may be provided for either a left-hand corner or a right-hand corner of a building structure. The end-wall meta-module includes a top cap module, base module, and partial column module. The top cap module and base module are adjustable by insertion of middle portions in order to adjust the length of the end-wall meta-module to accommodate different length walls. As with the entrance meta-module, the partial column of the end-wall meta-module is adjustable to accommodate different height walls. Moreover, the present invention provides a drive-thru awning module, canopy box module, and slope awning module.

All of these modules are attachable to an outside surface of a building structure. Thus, rather than having to have the facade of the building integrated into the construction of the building structure, the present invention provides a modular storefront that may be prefabricated and is able to be attached to an existing building structure. Moreover, the modular storefront is adjustable to accommodate different size building structures.

These and other features and advantages of the present invention will be described in, or will become apparent to those of ordinary skill in the art in view of, the following detailed description of the preferred embodiments.

BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS

The novel features believed characteristic of the invention are set forth in the appended claims. The invention itself, however, as well as a preferred mode of use, further objectives and advantages thereof, will best be understood by reference to the following detailed description of an illustrative embodiment when read in conjunction with the accompanying drawings, wherein:

FIG. 1 is an exemplary diagram of an entrance meta-module termed a “C unit” in accordance with one embodiment of the present invention;

FIG. 2 is an exemplary diagram of a top cap module in accordance with one embodiment of the present invention;

FIG. 3 is an exemplary diagram of a main or base module of the entrance meta-module in accordance with one embodiment of the present invention;

FIG. 4 is an exemplary diagram of a left section module of the main or base module in accordance with one embodiment of the present invention;

FIG. 5 is an exemplary diagram of a middle section module of the main or base module in accordance with one embodiment of the present invention;

FIG. 6 is an exemplary diagram of a left section module of the main or base module in accordance with one embodiment of the present invention;

FIG. 7 is an exemplary diagram of a left section module of a top cap module in accordance with one embodiment of the present invention;

FIG. 8 is an exemplary diagram of a middle section module of a top cap module in accordance with one embodiment of the present invention;

FIG. 9 is an exemplary diagram of a right section module of a top cap module in accordance with one embodiment of the present invention;

FIG. 10 is an exemplary diagram of an end-wall meta-module having a soffit and partial column in accordance with one embodiment of the present invention;

FIG. 11 is an exemplary diagram of an end-wall meta-module having a soffit and partial wrap-around column in accordance with one embodiment of the present invention;

FIG. 12 is an exemplary diagram illustrating the various modules that together comprise an end-wall meta-module top cap module in accordance with one embodiment of the present invention;

FIG. 13 is an exemplary diagram of a top cap module for the end-wall meta-module in accordance with one embodiment of the present invention;

FIG. 14 is an exemplary diagram of a cap module for use with a corner of the top cap module of FIG. 13;

FIG. 15 is an exemplary diagram of a base portion module of the end-wall meta-module of FIG. 11;

FIGS. 16 and 17 are exemplary diagrams illustration center sections of the top cap module of FIG. 13;

FIG. 18 is an exemplary diagram of an end base portion module of the end-wall meta-module of FIG. 11;

FIG. 19 is an exemplary diagram of a cap to the base portion modules of FIGS. 15 and 18;

FIG. 20 is an exemplary diagram of a right column wrap column module in accordance with one exemplary embodiment of the present invention;

FIG. 21 is an exemplary diagram of the modules that together comprise a left side corner cap module in accordance with the present invention;

FIG. 22 is an exemplary diagram of a the left side corner cap module of FIG. 21;

FIG. 23 is an exemplary diagram of a base portion module of the left side corner cap module of FIG. 21;

FIG. 24 is an exemplary diagram of a corner portion module of the left side corner cap module of FIG. 21;

FIG. 25 is an exemplary diagram of a cap to the base portion module of FIG. 23;

FIG. 26 is an exemplary diagram of the modules that together comprise entrance meta-module, or C unit meta-module, column modules in accordance with one exemplary embodiment of the present invention;

FIG. 27 is an exemplary diagram of the column modules of FIG. 26;

FIG. 28 is an exemplary diagram of a left side column module in accordance with the present invention;

FIG. 29 is an exemplary diagram of a right side column module in accordance with the present invention;

FIG. 30 is an exemplary diagram of the column base modules for the column modules of FIGS. 28 and 29;

FIG. 31 is an exemplary diagram of a drive-thru awning module in accordance with the present invention;

FIGS. 32A and 32B are exemplary diagrams of a canopy box module in accordance with the present invention;

FIGS. 33A-33C are exemplary diagrams of embodiments of a sloped awning module in accordance with the present invention;

FIG. 34 is a diagram illustrating the process of changing the facade of an existing building structure using the pre-fabricated multi-module storefront system of the present invention;

FIG. 35A illustrates a facade in which a soffit is provided by the main module of the C-unit such that the column modules are placed at a location that extends away from the building structure;

FIG. 35B illustrates a slightly different facade in which the main module of the C-unit does not extend outward providing a soffit;

FIG. 35C illustrates a slightly different facade in which the end-wall top cap modules do not have soffits and do not have partial columns;

FIG. 36A illustrates an existing restaurant facade that is present as an integrated part of the building structure;

FIG. 36B illustrates a storefront facade achieved through the use of the present invention;

FIG. 36C illustrates a front elevation of the modular storefront as installed on the existing building structure;

FIG. 36D illustrates a modular side elevation of the modular storefront as installed on the existing building structure;

FIG. 36E is an isometric view of the modular storefront entrance way or portal unit; and

FIG. 36F is an exemplary diagram of various modules of the storefront entrance way or portal unit which, when combined, provide the facade illustrated in FIGS. 36B-E.

DETAILED DESCRIPTION OF THE PREFERRED EMBODIMENTS

The present invention provides a multi-module storefront system. The multi-module storefront system includes a plurality of modules for attachment to the exterior side of a building structure such that the modules are attached to the building structure but are not integrated into the building structure. The modules themselves are prefabricated and are adjustable to accommodate building structures of various lengths, heights and widths. Moreover, the modules may be combined in various arrangements such that a first group of modules may be used with a first building structure and a second group of modules, different from the first group of modules, may be used with a second building structure.

The prefabricated modules are preferably constructed of a lightweight yet relatively strong material that is capable of withstanding wind gusts over 100 miles/hour. The strength and rigidity of the modules is achieved through having a plurality of ribs or gussets that aid in distributing the load on the modules while giving the modules their shape. In a preferred embodiment, these ribs or gussets are made from lightweight aluminum 5052, which is chosen as the preferred material in order to reduce weight without sacrificing the strength of the assembly. The skin of the modules is also fabricated from aluminum 5052, in a preferred embodiment. The cross-section of the various modules resembles that of an aircraft fuselage with regard to the frame and rib or gusset arrangement.

It should be noted that other materials and configurations of frames and ribs or gussets may be used without departing from the spirit and scope of the present invention. For example, portions of modules may be constructed of aluminum, galvanized steel, plastics, plywood with E.F.I.S. coating, Styrofoam with laminated aluminum skin, and the like. The particular materials used may be dependent, for example, on the particular implementation of the present invention as well as the budgetary constraints of the entity making use of the present invention.

In a preferred embodiment, the modules are manufactured through a process in which sheets of materials are form-pressed using molds to thereby generate the pieces of material that make up the modules. That is, sheets of aluminum, or other appropriate material, of various compositions, thicknesses, widths, etc., are inserted into a computer operated, e.g., CAD driven, C/C punch whereby parts are produced in a flatten form with required holes and/or shapes. The flat parts are then inserted into a “break” to produce each shape. Then, all parts are deburred to remove raw edges and sent to a welding group for final assembly. Each part may receive an individual part number to facilitate fabrication and provide for future changes or modifications as may be needed. The finished parts are chemically etched to prepare the surface for a designated coat of finish. Final assembly and installation of the modules is accomplished on site and fastened to the building structure, or parapet wall, utilizing architectural and construction standards for installation.

In a preferred embodiment, the modules receiving a chemical etching to enhance finish durability. Some modules receiving coatings that duplicate plaster to blend into the exterior facade of each location. Other modules are finished with epoxy coatings, powder coatings, automobile-like finish, or the like, for long life and durability. All efforts are sued to present each module as a part of the original structure in a manner which diminishes the look of aluminum as a material or other foreign substance add-on.

Because of the lightweight and prefabricated nature of the modules of the present invention, many of the modules may be hoisted by human laborers when the modules are being attached to a building structure. Other modules, while still being relatively lightweight, may require heavy machinery for lifting during attachment to the outside surface of the building structure. For this purpose, these modules are provided with lifting brackets into which a crane hook, cable, or the like, may be inserted in order to lift the module to a position adjacent the building structure.

As stated above, the multi-module storefront system of the present invention includes a plurality of modules that are adjustable and may be used in various arrangements to obtain different aesthetic qualities. Each of the modules of a preferred embodiment of the present invention will be discussed prior to a discussion of the possible arrangements of these modules to achieve an aesthetic purpose.

It should be noted that, while the figures include dimensions, and statements regarding the materials and assembly hardware used in a preferred embodiment of the present invention, the present invention is not limited to such. Rather, as will be apparent from the following description, the embodiments shown in the figures are only illustrative and many modifications to the depicted embodiments may be made without departing from the spirit and scope of the present invention. In particular, different dimensions, materials and assembly hardware may be used depending on the particular implementation of the present invention.

A first meta-module for positioning over an entrance to a building structure, illustrated in FIG. 1, termed the “C unit”, includes a plurality of adjustable height column modules 110, an adjustable length main module 120, an adjustable length top cap module 130, and an adjustable length wall cap module 140. Each of these portions are illustrated in subsequent figures.

The adjustable height column modules 110 are provided for positioning on either side of a building entrance. While the preferred embodiment illustrates only two adjustable height column modules 110 being used, the present invention is not limited to such. Any number of columns may be used without departing from the spirit and scope of the present invention. For example, with large entrance portions of a building structure, such as for grocery stores, department stores, and the like, more than two column modules may be used.

Of particular note with regard to the column modules 110 is that the column modules 110 include a first tubular module that sits within a base module. The base module acts as a sleeve to the tubular module on a bottom portion of the tubular module. The tubular module is adjustable within the base module such that different heights may be achieved. That is, through use of a positioning elements within the base module, the tubular module may be moved to positions at different heights within the base module, thereby elevating or lowering the tubular module within the base module.

The column modules 110, in a preferred embodiment, are formed from ribs or gussets of aluminum that provide the shape of the column and an aluminum skin that provides a surface upon which an aesthetically pleasing paint or other facade treatment, e.g., texturing, or the like, may be added. The base module of the column modules 110 is preferably constructed from 10 gage galvanized steel to provide added strength and rigidity.

The tubular module has an open center, i.e. is hollow. This allows electrical wiring and other necessary wirings to be passed through the columns to lighting fixtures and other powered fixtures placed on the column modules 110, the main module 120, the top cap module 130, or the like.

While the figures illustrate the column modules 110 to be rectangular in cross section, the present invention is not limited to such. Rather, any type of column shape is achievable with the present invention including circular cross-section, oval cross-section, triangular cross-section, hexagonal cross-section columns, and the like. Thus, the column modules 110 should not be interpreted as being limited to the exemplary embodiment illustrated.

The C-unit may be attached to the building structure such that the column modules 110 are attached to the outside surface of a wall of the building structure. Alternatively, the main module 120 may be provided with a soffit that extends a front face of the main module beyond the walls of the building structure. In such a case, the column modules 110 may not be attached to the building structure except by virtue of being attached to the main module 120.

The adjustable length main module 120, referred to in the figures as a “C-base”, is comprised of a left section module, a right section module, and one or more middle section modules. In order to accommodate larger length entrance ways, additional middle section modules may be added to the adjustable length main module 120 such that the main module 120 is the proper length for the particular building structure to which the meta-module is to be attached.

The left, right and middle modules of the main module 120 preferably have a notched cross section such that the main module 120 sits as an overhang on the top surface of the existing building structure. This allows the building structure to help support the weight of the C unit as well as provides additional surface area over which attachments to the building structure may be made.

In a preferred embodiment, each of the left, right and middle modules are made of an aluminum frame having ribs or gussets for maintaining the shape of the main module 120. An aluminum skin, i.e. a sheet of aluminum metal, is attached to the ribs or gussets to provide a surface upon which paint or other aesthetic treatments may be applied. In addition, the main module 120 provides a large flat surface to which a business sign or other fixture may be attached. As with the column modules 110, the main module 120 is open in the center thereby allowing wiring to be run through the main module 120 to electrical fixtures. In this way, the electrical wiring is kept out of the view of potential customers.

In some embodiments, a light box 150 may be attached to the underside, or soffit, of the adjustable length main module 120 to provide lighting for the entrance way of the building structure. An exemplary light box for such a purpose may include a light box 150 having recessed can lights, although other lighting fixtures may be used with the present invention, as will be apparent to those of ordinary skill in the art in view of this disclosure, without departing from the spirit and scope of the present invention.

A top cap module 130 is provided that may be attached to the main module 120 on a top surface of the main module 120. The top cap module 130 has an angled ornamental construction. A sloping top surface is provided such that the slope descends to a backward side of the top cap. In this way water run-off, such as from rain or melting snow, is directed to a back side of the prefabricated multi-module storefront system and ultimately, to a roof of the building structure. This helps to prevent water run-off from potentially falling on customers, employees, and other persons using the entrance way of the building structure.

The top cap module 130, as with the main module 120, is provided in sections including a left, right and middle section. In order to accommodate entrance ways of various sizes, additional middle sections may be added to the top cap module 130 to extend the length of the entire top cap module 130.

The top cap module 130 may further have a recess at the bottom of the top cap module 130 for placement of neon lighting elements (not shown).

As shown in FIG. 1, the C unit further includes an adjustable length wall cap module 140. The adjustable length wall cap module 140 is provided in sections with an end section having a corner piece for accommodating a corner of the wall upon which the adjustable length wall cap module 140 is attached. Alternatively, the adjustable length wall cap module 140 may be coupled to an end-wall meta-module, such as that shown in FIG. 10 or 11, discussed hereafter.

As with the top cap 130 for the main module 120, the adjustable length wall cap module 140 is constructed as an aluminum frame having a center rib or gusset with open sections on either side of the center rib or gusset. These open sections permit the passing of electrical wiring and other wiring within the module such that it is not viewable by persons from the outside of the module. The frame is covered by an aluminum skin to which paint or other aesthetic treatments may be applied.

In addition, the adjustable length wall cap module 140 may include a recessed portion at the bottom of the module structure for placement of neon lighting or the like. The electrical wiring necessary to power the neon lighting may be provided through the open center section of the adjustable length wall cap module 140 as suggested above.

As mentioned previously, the adjustable length wall cap module 140 may be coupled to an end-wall meta-module. This end-wall meta-module may include a corner column module similar to the column modules 110 but configured to be placed on a corner of a building structure where two walls of the building structure meet. In one embodiment, the column modules 110 are partial columns that provide the appearance as if the columns are part of the building structure. As such, the partial column modules may be flush against the building structure and may wrap-around the corner of the building structure such that it appears as if one side of the column is facing out of one wall of the building structure and a second side of the partial column is facing out of the other wall of the building structure at the corner.

The modules of the C-unit described above may be attached to an existing building structure in a number of different ways and any suitable attachment mechanism is intended to be within the spirit and scope of the present invention. In a preferred embodiment, modules of the C-unit are provided with brackets having holes through which fasteners may be passed and inserted into the existing building structure to thereby attach the modules to the building structure.

The modules may be attached to one another in any known manner including the use of welding, mechanism fasteners, chemical fasteners or the like. In a preferred embodiment, a combination of welding and mechanism fasteners is used to combine the various modules together to provide the look and feel of a single integrated unit.

Once attached to the building structure, or prior to attachment to the building structure, a paint and/or aesthetic treatment is applied to the outside surfaces, i.e. the aluminum skin, of the various modules. This paint and/or aesthetic treatment may approximate or be the same as the paint/aesthetic treatment of the building structure. As a result, the impression is given to viewers of the building that the prefabricated multi-module storefront system is integrated with the building structure.

The following figures provide a more detailed description of the various modules of the pre-fabricated multi-module storefront system. Again, it should be appreciated that many modifications may be made to these modules without departing from the spirit and scope of the present invention.

FIG. 2 is an exemplary diagram of a top cap module in accordance with one embodiment of the present invention. The top cap module of FIG. 2 corresponds to the top cap module 130 in FIG. 1, for example. As shown in FIG. 2, the top cap module 130 is comprised of a left section module 210, a right section module 220, and at least one middle section module 230. The left, right and middle modules 210-230 may be welded together to from a complete top cap module 130 which may then be attached to the main module 120. The details of each section module of the top cap module will be discussed in more detail with reference to FIGS. 7-9 hereafter.

FIG. 3 is an exemplary diagram of a main or base module of the entrance meta-module in accordance with one embodiment of the present invention. The main or base module illustrated in FIG. 3 corresponds to the main module 120 of FIG. 1. As illustrated in FIG. 3, the main or base module 120 includes a left section module 310, a right section module 320, and at least one middle section module 330. The left, right and middle modules 310-330 may be welded together to from a complete main module 120 which may then be attached to the top cap module 130, column modules 110, and may have an attached lighting fixture 150.

As illustrated in each of FIGS. 4-6, the left section module 310 (FIG. 4), middle section modules 320 (FIG. 5), and right section module 330 (FIG. 6) have an aluminum frame 340 with ribs or gussets 350 for providing the structural support, strength, and rigidity of the main module. An aluminum skin 360, i.e. sheet of aluminum metal, is attached to the frame 340 and rib or gusset structure 350 to provide and enclosed structure and to provide a surface upon which paint and/or aesthetic treatments may be applied.

In addition, the frames 340 of each section module 310-330 are configured with a notch-type recess 360 for resting on the top of a wall of a building structure. In this way, the top of the notch-type recess 360 rests on the top of the wall while the vertical side of the notch-type recess 360 overhangs the front of the wall. The notch-type recess 360 provides a means by which the wall of the building structure may aid in supporting the load of the main module 120 and other modules attached to it. In addition, the notch-type recess 360 aids in the illusion that the C-unit is integrated into the construction of the building structure.

FIGS. 7-9 are exemplary diagrams illustrating the left section module 210 (FIG. 7), the middle section module 230 (FIG. 8), and the right section module 220 (FIG. 9) of a top cap 130 in accordance with one exemplary embodiment of the present invention. As shown in FIGS. 7-9 each section module 210-230 is comprised of a frame and a plurality of ribs or gussets that together provide the structural strength and rigidity as well as the shape of these section modules 210-230. As with the other elements of the prefabricated multi-module storefront system, an aluminum skin is placed on the frame and rib or gusset assembly to provide an enclosed structure as well as a surface to which paint and other aesthetic treatments may be applied.

Also, as shown in these figures, the top surface of each section module 210-230 has a downward slope in the direction of a back side of the top cap. This downward slope provides a water run-off surface that permits rain, snow, and other precipitation to run-off down the downward slope toward a roof of the existing building structure.

The top cap module 130 is comprised of the left section module 210, the right section module 220 and at least one middle section module 230. Additional middle section modules 230 may be added to the top cap module 130 to extend the top cap module 130 to a desired size to accommodate the width of an entrance area of a building structure.

The section modules 210-230 of the top cap module 130 are coupled to one another using any appropriate fastening mechanism including mechanical fastening devices (such as brackets, carriage bolts, flange nuts, etc.) chemical fasteners (such as adhesives, welding, etc.) and the like. These section modules 210-230 may be coupled to the main module 120 in a similar manner.

FIG. 10 is an exemplary diagram of an end-wall meta-module having a soffit and partial column in accordance with one embodiment of the present invention. As shown in FIG. 10, the end-wall meta-module includes a main module 410, a partial column module 420, and a top cap module 430. More detailed diagrams of these modules are provided in FIGS. 12-19 discussed hereafter.

The main module 410 is similar in construction to the main module 120 of the C-unit but tends to have smaller dimensions than that of the main module 120, although this is not required. Because of the difference in dimensions, when attached to an existing building structure, the end-wall meta-module is at a lower height than the main module 120 of the C-unit. In this way, the entrance area of the building structure is made more noticeable to potential customers of the business establishment.

As with the main module 120, the main module 410 is constructed of a frame and a plurality of ribs or gussets upon which a metallic sheet of material is applied as a “skin” to thereby enclose the structure as well as provide a surface to which aesthetic treatments may be applied. The main module 120 is of an open construction so that wiring and the like may be passed through a center section of the main module 120. In this way, the wiring remains hidden from outside view.

The main module 410, as with the main module 120, may be comprised of a plurality of section modules. Middle section modules may be added to accommodate walls of different lengths in existing building structures.

In one exemplary embodiment of the present invention, the main module 410 provides a small soffit when attached to the outside surface of a building structure. In this way, the existing walls of the building structure appear to be recessed within the building structure such that two different depths are perceivable when viewing the wall with the end-wall meta-module attached to it.

Attached to the main module 410 is a partial column module 420. The partial column module 420 is similar in construction to the column modules 110 of the C-unit. The main difference between the column modules 110 and 420 is that the partial column module 420 has at least one of its dimensions less than that of the column module 110, e.g., a width of the column module is reduced. This is so that when the partial column module 420 is attached to the outside surface of an existing building structure, it appears as if the partial column module 420 is a complete column that is integrated into the structure of the building and that only one or two sides of the column are actually visible.

As with the column modules 110 of the C-Unit, the partial column module 420 includes a base module and a tubular module. The tubular module is able to be placed at various heights within the base module in order to accommodate walls of different height in existing building structures. Thus, the tubular module is height adjustable within the base module.

The main module 410 is also attached to a top cap module 430. The top cap module 430 is similar in design to the top cap module 130 of the C-Unit. One principle difference in design is that the top cap module 430 includes a corner module that is to be placed at the corner of a building structure, i.e. where to walls at different angles to one another meet. While the figures illustrate this corner module to have a 90 degree corner turn, the present invention is not limited to such an any angular difference between the walls meeting at a corner may be accommodated for with the present invention.

From the corner module, other wall top cap and end-wall meta-modules may be used to extend the storefront along another wall of the building structure. In this way, the facade created by the prefabricated multi-module storefront system on a front side of a building structure may be extended around the building structure to one or more other sides of the building structure.

FIG. 11 is an exemplary diagram of an end-wall meta-module having a soffit and partial wrap-around column in accordance with one embodiment of the present invention. The end-wall meta-module of FIG. 11 is similar to that of FIG. 10 with the exception that the column module 420 wraps around the corner of the building structure. The depicted example illustrates this wrap around to be on a 90 degree corner of an existing building structure, however the present invention is not limited to such. Rather, the angle of the wrap around column may be adjusted such that any angle made between two walls meeting at a corner may be accommodated using the mechanisms of the present invention.

FIG. 12 is an exemplary diagram illustrating the various modules that together comprise an end-wall meta-module top cap module in accordance with one embodiment of the present invention. As illustrated in FIG. 12, the top cap module 510 includes a corner module 520, and section modules 530. The section modules may include a left side module 540, one or more middle modules 550, and a right side module 560. In addition, the section modules 530 and the corner module 520 may be placed on a base cap 570 that includes a recess 580 into which a neon lighting element may be placed for accenting this portion of the storefront facade.

FIGS. 13-19 illustrate these modules 510-570 in greater detail. As with the other modules of the pre-fabricated multi-module storefront system, these modules 510-570 are formed of a frame and rib or gusset structure having a sheet of material attached to it to serve as a “skin” to the enclosed structure. The construction is open in the same way as the other modules previously discussed such that wiring and the like may be passed through these modules.

FIG. 20 is an exemplary diagram of a right column wrap column module in accordance with one exemplary embodiment of the present invention. The right column wrap column module 610 is provided for use with the end-wall meta-module such that the facade created by the end-wall meta-module wraps around a corner of a building structure to an opposing wall. As shown in FIG. 20, the column is not a complete column but includes a recessed portion 620 for accommodating the walls of the building structure and especially, a corner of the building structure. When attached to the building structure, the right-column wrap corner provides the illusion that the column is a complete column with only a portion of it visible from outside the building. Thus, the illusion that the column is integrated with the building structure is achieved.

The end-wall meta-module illustrated in the above figures is for a wall that extends to the right side of the C-unit when facing the C-unit from the outside of the building structure. The present invention is not limited to such. FIGS. 21-25 illustrate a similar configuration of modules for an end-wall meta-module that is configured for a left side extending wall. In particular, FIG. 21 is an exemplary diagram, similar to that of FIG. 12, of the modules that together comprise a left side corner cap module in accordance with the present invention. FIG. 22 is an exemplary diagram of the left side corner cap module of FIG. 21. FIG. 23 is an exemplary diagram of a left section module of the left side corner cap module of FIG. 21 and is similar to the right section module of FIG. 18. FIG. 24 is an exemplary diagram of a corner portion module of the left side corner cap module of FIG. 21 and is similar to the corner module of FIG. 14. FIG. 25 is an exemplary diagram of a base portion module similar to that illustrated in FIG. 19.

FIG. 26 is an exemplary diagram of the modules that together comprise entrance meta-module, or C unit meta-module, column modules in accordance with one exemplary embodiment of the present invention. As illustrated in FIGS. 27-30, the column modules may be of a wrap around type (see FIG. 28) a partial column (see FIG. 29) or alternatively may be a complete column. The wrap around type column and the partial column are to be attached to an outside surface of a building wall and provide the illusion that the column is integrated into the building structure. The complete column is typically used with the entrance way portion of the C-unit so as to provide an ornamental entrance way for potential customers and the like.

The column modules include a base module 610 and a tubular module 620, as previously described. The tubular module 620 is movable within the base module 620 such that the tubular module 620 may be placed at different heights within the base module 610 to accommodate building structures of different heights. The base module 610 thus, will typically have larger width dimensions than the tubular module 620 in order to accommodate the tubular module 610 within the base module 610.

The column modules, whether wrap around, partial or complete, have a structure similar to the other elements of the pre-fabricated multi-module storefront system. Specifically, they are constructed as a frame 630 having ribs or gussets 640 upon which a sheet of material is attached to provide an enclosed structure. The result is an open construction such that wiring and the like may be passed through a center of the columns in order to hide the wiring from outside viewers and protect it from weather conditions.

The wrap around column includes a recessed portion 650 for accommodating the walls and corner of a building structure. As previously mentioned, this recessed portion may be configured so as to allow for different angles between walls rather than being only configured for 90 degree corners.

In addition, as illustrated in FIG. 30, the base units 610 may be partial base units such that they have one open side. The open side is preferably faced towards the building structure such that it is not viewable by persons outside the building structure.

In addition to the above structures, the present invention further includes drive-thru awning modules and canopy boxes that may be attached to the outside surface of a building structure in order to provide both an aesthetically pleasing facade as well as being function by providing both cover from precipitation and sunlight as well as lighting during night and other times of diminished visibility.

FIG. 31 is an exemplary diagram of a drive-thru awning module in accordance with the present invention. The drive-thru awning module includes an aluminum sheet of material that acts as a skin when applied to a frame or bracketed to an existing building structure. The awning has a triangular cross-section having a slope that allows for run-off of precipitation as well as providing protection from sunlight.

FIGS. 32A and 32B are exemplary diagrams of a canopy box module in accordance with the present invention. The canopy box includes a box frame structure made of square aluminum tubing. The frame is overlayed with an aluminum sheet. Holes in the aluminum sheet are provided in a bottom surface of the canopy box such that can lights may be inserted into the canopy box.

Brackets are provided on a back side of the canopy box frame for attachment to a wall of a building structure. In addition turnbuckle attachments are provided along the length of the canopy box for attachment to the wall of a building structure. The brackets provide the majority of the support for the canopy box with the turnbuckle attachments providing some additional support. The turnbuckle attachments, however, are primarily provided for aesthetic purposes and in some applications, may be eliminated if desired.

FIGS. 33A-33C are exemplary diagrams of embodiments of a sloped awning module in accordance with the present invention. As shown in FIGS. 33A-33C, the sloped awning includes a frame made of round aluminum rods with a sheet of aluminum material being overlayed on the frame and providing the skin of the sloped awning. The frame has a first support bar 710 for attachment to opposing portions of a building structure. The attachments for the first support bar 710 preferably provide for some measure of rotation within the attachment in order to allow the sloped awning to be attached at various angles.

A second support bar 720 is provided with ball end portions 730 that are comprised of a ball welded to a nut and screw assembly. Support members 740 having circular openings 750 for accommodating the second support bar 720 are provided with the ball end portions 730 being fastened to the ends of the second support bar 720 after insertion into the circular openings 750.

The circular openings 750 allow the second support bar to rotate as the sloped awning is attached at different angles to the wall of the building structure. The support members may be attached at various places on the wall of the building structure, thereby achieving different angles of the sloped awning.

In another embodiment of the present invention, the sheet of aluminum material that is overlayed the frame may be provided with indentions at locations corresponding to the ribs of the frame. This allows for improved placement and attachment of the sheet to the frame and rib assembly.

FIG. 34 is a diagram illustrating the process of changing the facade of an existing building structure using the pre-fabricated multi-module storefront system of the present invention. As shown in FIG. 34, the first step in the process is that the elements of the old facade are removed. That is, awnings are removed, signs are removed, and the like. In some cases such removal may require demolition and rebuilding of portions of the building structure.

In a second step of the process, the pre-fabricated modules of the present system are brought to the building structure, sized and attached to the building structure. The sizing of the modules may be performed prior to the modules being brought to the building structure or may be sized on site since the modules are adjustable as previously discussed. Because of the light weight nature of the modules, many of the modules may be lifted into place without the need for heavy machinery. However, for some assemblies of modules, a crane or other lifting machinery may be used to place the modules at a proper location on the outside of the building structure.

In a third step of the process, the modules may be painted and/or have aesthetic treatments applied to them along with the building structure so as to help provide the illusion of an integrated building structure. Moreover, signs and other insignia may be attached to the storefront. The result is a new storefront that is installed in less than ⅓ the time typically required of prior art integrated building techniques.

FIGS. 35A-C illustrate various facades achievable through the use of the prefabricated multi-module storefront system of the present invention. FIG. 35A illustrates a facade in which a soffit is provided by the main module of the C-unit such that the column modules are placed at a location that extends away from the building structure. A canopy box is placed over a windowed wall with an end-wall top cap module having a wrap around column. A smaller canopy box is placed over a window of an adjoining wall which has a non-wrap around column end-wall top cap module. A sloped awning is provided over the entrance way and is attached to the columns of the C-unit.

FIG. 35B illustrates a slightly different facade in which the main module of the C-unit does not extend outward providing a soffit. Rather, the columns are attached to the wall of the building structure.

FIG. 35C illustrates a slightly different facade in which the end-wall top cap modules do not have soffits and do not have partial columns. Rather, only a top cap module is provided on a top portion of the walls of the building structure. Other variations of the facades shown in FIGS. 35A-35C may be achievable through the use of the prefabricated multi-module storefront system of the present invention without departing from the spirit and scope of the present invention.

For example, FIGS. 36A-F illustrate how the pre-fabricated multi-module storefront system of the present invention may be utilized to achieve a different facade from that of FIGS. 35A-35C. FIG. 36A illustrates an existing restaurant facade that is present as an integrated part of the building structure. FIG. 36B illustrates a storefront facade achieved through the use of the present invention. FIG. 36C illustrates a front elevation of the modular storefront as installed on the existing building structure. FIG. 36D illustrates a modular side elevation of the modular storefront as installed on the existing building structure. FIG. 36E is an isometric view of the modular storefront entrance way or portal unit.

FIG. 36F is an exemplary diagram of various modules of the storefront entrance way or portal unit which, when combined, provide the facade illustrated in FIGS. 36B-E. As shown in FIG. 36F, the various modules include roof panel modules 810, side modules 820, a main module 830, column modules 840, and window wall module 850. These modules 810-850 are attached to the existing building structure but provide the illusion of integration into the existing building structure as illustrated in FIGS. 36B-E.

Thus, the present invention provides a pre-fabricated multi-module storefront system which allows a business owner to change and/or install a storefront facade without requiring reconstruction of the building structure. Since the storefront of the present invention does not require reconstruction of the building structure, the cost and time of providing a storefront through the use of the present invention is significantly reduced. A typical storefront may be installed using the present invention within 7 days whereas the prior art reconstruction options require 30 or more days. This results in a large loss of revenue for business owners with these losses being able to be reduced significantly by the quick installation of the multi-module storefront system of the present invention.

Because of this large loss in revenue with prior art reconstruction approaches, business owners are deterred from updating their business facades and thus, do not gain the extra revenue that is attributed to more modern and attractive storefronts. Because the present invention reduces the loss of revenue, the cost of updating the facade, and the amount of down-time of the business, business owners are more likely to update their storefronts to take advantage of the benefits of more modern storefront facades.

The description of the present invention has been presented for purposes of illustration and description, and is not intended to be exhaustive or limited to the invention in the form disclosed. Many modifications and variations will be apparent to those of ordinary skill in the art. The embodiment was chosen and described in order to best explain the principles of the invention, the practical application, and to enable others of ordinary skill in the art to understand the invention for various embodiments with various modifications as are suited to the particular use contemplated. 

1. A multi-module storefront system, comprising: a plurality of modules that together provide a unified storefront facade; and means for attaching the plurality of modules to an existing building structure, wherein modules of the plurality of modules are adjustable to accommodate building structures of different sizes.
 2. The system of claim 1, wherein the plurality of modules includes an adjustable entrance meta-module having a top cap module and a main module, wherein the top cap module provides an ornamental look for a top of the system and the main module provides a flat surface upon which storefront insignia may be attached.
 3. The system of claim 2, wherein the top cap module and main module are comprised of end portions and at least one middle portion.
 4. The system of claim 3, wherein the top cap module and main module are adjustable to building structures of different lengths by insertion of more than one middle portion.
 5. The system of claim 1, wherein the plurality of modules further include at least one column module.
 6. The system of claim 5, wherein the at least one column module includes a base module and a tubular module that sits within the base module.
 7. The system of claim 6, wherein the tubular module may be adjusted, within the base module, to different heights.
 8. The system of claim 2, wherein the top cap module includes a recess for receiving a lighting element.
 9. The system of claim 2, wherein the top cap module and the main module have open center sections through which wiring may be passed.
 10. The system of claim 2, wherein the top cap module and main module are formed of a frame having one or more ribs or gussets and a metallic skin attached to the frame.
 11. The system of claim 1, wherein the plurality of modules includes an end-wall top cap module having a top cap module and a partial column module.
 12. The system of claim 8, wherein the top cap module has a sloping top surface that provides water run-off towards a roof surface of an existing building structure.
 13. The system of claim 11, wherein the partial column module is a wrap-around partial column module that wraps around a corner of an existing building structure.
 14. The system of claim 2, wherein the main module extends outward from an existing building structure to provide a soffit. 